Monday 31st October 2011 - Published by Robert Trigg - Communications Executive
EDL fail to derail International Awards
A rally by the English Defence League failed to deter the celebrities and guests that attended a prestigious black international film festival that took place this weekend at the ICC in Birmingham.
The Black International Film Festival’s Music Video & Screen Awards - which celebrates black heritage within the film industry - continued with their event on Saturday, with little interference from the English Defence League (EDL).
During the afternoon, the EDL protested in Centenary Square, which led to some celebrities and staff not being able to get into the area. However, with support from the West Midlands Police, event organisers Aspire4U ensured no one involved in the event was badly affected by the protest and people were safely escorted in and out of the ICC building.
The event celebrates the contribution of black people to the world of screen, theatre and music.
Awards went to a range of talented artists, including Monq Hammon who bagged the Ebony Award for Lifetime achievement, with Best UK film going to Random.
This is the second successive year that Birmingham-based, community interest company, Aspire4u has worked on the Black International Film Festival’s Music Video & Screen Awards, which were hosted by Jimmy Akingbola, star of Holby City, and ITV presenter Jacqui Joseph.
Event organiser, Daniella Genas said: “Aspire4u had to work extra hard this year to ensure that the event was a success and the feedback has been phenomenal. We are looking forward to continuing to work with the Black International Film Festival in the coming years and watching it go from strength to strength.”
Guests included EastEnders star Rudolph Walker and Angela Wynter, as well as actors Joseph Millson and Olga Fedori, who star in Holby City.
Hosts Jacqui Joseph and Jimmy Akingbola
